Competitive Cougars have South’s attention

One unfortunate byproduct of Sullivan Central’s competitive start to the season is that the Cougars have probably ruined their chance to sneak up on teams.

Count Sullivan South head coach Justin Hilton among those impressed with Central’s valiant three attempts to end what is now a 33-game losing streak.

“Central has come out early and jumped on each of its opponents, so we know they are well prepared and have a good stock of playmakers,” said Hilton. “Our kids understand what is at stake. It’s a big conference game for us. Central and South has always been a great game.”

The Region 1-4A county rivals meet tonight in Blountville with kickoff scheduled for 7:30.

REBELS’ TASK

If the previous games are any indication, the Rebels could have their hands full with Central quarterback Jackson Harrison. He has been a total yardage beast this season as the Cougars have lost by 10, 2 and 7 points.

“Harrison is a great runner and does a good job executing their offense,” said Hilton. “He is a big, strong kid who is hard to tackle. We need to be sound on the line of scrimmage and try to keep him corralled.”

South has its own stat eater in quarterback Luke Pollack. He has helped the Rebels average 40 points per game in their last three contests.

Union County at Sullivan East

East got its offense in gear after totaling just 14 points in the first three games. However, its defense allowed 41 points in the loss to Volunteer.

Union County doesn’t provide a pushover opponent despite its recent history. The team lost 27 straight games and considered dropping the program prior to last year. Instead, Union brought in veteran coach Larry Kerr and won three games in 2017.

This year, Union County is 0-1 in Region 1-4A play — but that loss came against defending state champion Greeneville.

Sullivan North at South Greene

It’s all about the wins this year for the Raiders. Already they have avenged a pair of 42-14 losses in 2017 by beating Northview Academy and Chuckey-Doak.

Win No. 5 looks likely, although South Greene is coming off its first win of the season, a 21-7 decision over county foe West Greene.